Implementation of 3D technologies in the workflow of auricular prosthetics: A method using optical scanning and stereolithography 3D printing.

The fabrication of auricular prostheses is traditionally time consuming, and the definitive esthetic appearance is highly skill dependent. A method of creating the wax pattern for an auricular prosthesis by using optical scanning and 3D printing is described. A digital scan of the unaffected ear is used for computer-aided design and manufacturing of a mold for casting the wax pattern of the prosthesis. The process is efficient and increases the predictability of the esthetic outcome.